Google Pixel 9 Pro XL: Everything You Need to Know

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is Google’s latest flagship smartphone, bringing a number of improvements and new features over its predecessor. While the device excels in many areas, there are still some aspects that could benefit from further refinement. In this amazing video review by Kyle Erickson, we learn about the key features, performance, and user experience of the Pixel 9 Pro XL to help you make an informed decision.

Quality of design and execution

Google has given the Pixel 9 Pro XL a fresh new look, featuring squared edges and a glossy metallic finish that sets it apart from previous generations. A redesigned camera bump replaces the old camera cover, creating a more streamlined and cohesive look. The device is comfortable to hold thanks to its ergonomic design and remains stable when placed on a flat surface. It’s worth noting, however, that the glossy finish is prone to attracting fingerprints, especially if you opt for the black (obsidian) variant.

• New look with square edges and shiny metallic finish
• Streamlined camera shape provides a consistent look
• Comfortable to hold and stable on flat surfaces
• Glossy finish prone to fingerprints, especially in black

Display quality and touch sensitivity

The Pixel 9 Pro XL sports a stunning 6.8-inch 120Hz OLED screen with a resolution of 1344 x 2992 pixels. The display offers a peak brightness of up to 3000 nits, making it ideal for media consumption and outdoor viewing. The high refresh rate ensures smooth transitions and animations, improving the overall user experience. The device also features improved touch sensitivity with adaptive touch technology and an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint reader for a secure and convenient unlocking experience.

• 6.8-inch 120Hz OLED screen with 1344 x 2992 resolution
• Maximum brightness of 3000 nits for excellent visibility
• Smooth transitions and animations thanks to high refresh rate
• Improved touch sensitivity with adaptive touch and ultrasonic fingerprint sensor

Performance and storage

Under the hood, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is powered by Google’s latest Tensor G4 chip, paired with 16GB of RAM. While its benchmark scores may not outperform those of other flagship phones, the device delivers excellent real-world performance, delivering a smooth and responsive user experience. The Pixel 9 Pro XL comes with 128GB of UFS 3.1 storage, which, while not as fast as the newer UFS 4 standard, still provides plenty of space for your apps, media, and files. Notably, the device runs cooler under heavy loads compared to its predecessor, indicating better thermal management.

• Equipped with a Tensor G4 processor and 16 GB of RAM for excellent performance
• 128GB UFS 3.1 storage, slower than UFS 4 but still sufficient
• Runs cooler under load compared to previous generation

Camera system and image quality

The Pixel 9 Pro XL has a versatile rear camera setup, consisting of a 50MP main camera, a 48MP telephoto camera, and a slightly tweaked ultra-wide-angle camera. The front-facing camera has also been improved, now sporting a 42MP sensor. The cameras produce natural-looking photos with good dynamic range, retaining detail in both highlights and shadows. There are, however, some issues with Portrait mode and lens transition that may require a software update. The device supports 8K video recording via upscaling, offering impressive stabilisation but some noise in low-light conditions.

• Versatile rear camera: 50MP main, 48MP telephoto, modified ultra-wide
• Improved 42MP front camera
• Natural looking photos with good dynamic range
• Portrait mode and lens transition issues may require a software update
• 8K video recording with upscaling, good stabilization but some noise in low light

AI Features and Gemini Assistant

Pixel 9 Pro XL introduces new AI-powered photo editing tools like Auto Frame and Reimagine, which improve the user experience and make it easier to take and edit stunning photos. Google also introduced Gemini Assistant, its version of ChatGPT, which offers improved speech understanding. However, the assistant’s device control capabilities are currently limited, leaving room for future improvements.

• New AI-powered photo editing tools like auto-cropping and re-imagining
• Gemini Assistant with improved speech understanding
• Limited Device Control for Gemini Assistant

Software and connectivity

Running on the latest Android 14 operating system, the Pixel 9 Pro XL promises an impressive 7 years of software updates, ensuring long-term support and security. The stock Android user interface offers a clean and intuitive experience, with smooth animations and transitions throughout the interface. The device also offers excellent wireless connectivity, with Wi-Fi 7 compatibility for lightning-fast internet speeds and Bluetooth 5.3 for reliable connections to peripherals and wearables.

• It runs on Android 14 with a promise of 7 years of software updates
• The standard Android user interface provides a clear and intuitive environment
• Excellent wireless connectivity with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3

Battery life and charging

The Pixel 9 Pro XL is equipped with a 5600mAh battery that offers a respectable 6-7 hours of screen time under normal usage. The device supports 37W wired charging and 23W wireless charging when used with the Pixel Stand. However, it does not support CH2 magnetic chargers, which may be a drawback for some users who prefer the convenience of magnetic charging solutions.

• 5600 mAh battery provides 6-7 hours of screen time with screen on
• Supports 37W wired charging and 23W wireless charging with Pixel Stand
• No support for CH2 magnetic chargers

Overall User Experience

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL delivers a refined and enjoyable user experience with a combination of powerful hardware, polished software, and thoughtful design. The device offers good haptics and sound effects, improving the overall experience and responsiveness of the UI. With an impressive camera system, long-term software support, and high performance, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is a strong candidate to replace other flagship devices as a daily driver.

Abstract

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is a well-rounded flagship smartphone that offers a number of improvements and new features over its predecessor. While there are some areas that could benefit from further refinement, such as Portrait Mode and the lens transition in the camera system, the device stands out in a number of areas, including performance, display quality, and software experience. If you’re looking for a high-end Android smartphone that focuses on its camera capabilities and long-term software support, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is definitely worth considering.

Image Credit & Source: Kyle Erickson

Filed under: Android News, Mobile News, Top News

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